What is the third tenet of Kohlberg's moral development called?

• A. Preconventional
• B. Conventional
• C. Postconventional
• D. None

Answer: (C)

Postconventional morality is the third level of Kohlberg's moral development. At this stage, reasoning about right and wrong is guided by abstract principles such as justice, rights, and universal ethical standards, rather than simply following rules to avoid punishment or please others. Within this level, people may also consider social contracts and revise laws if they conflict with fundamental principles. This contrasts with the earlier levels, where morality is based on avoiding punishment or seeking rewards (preconventional) or conforming to social norms and authority (conventional). Not everyone reaches postconventional thinking, which is why it stands out as the higher, principle-based stage.